Coping: meaning, definitions and examples

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coping

[ˈkəʊpɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

dealing with stress

Coping refers to the way in which individuals respond to stress, challenges, or difficult situations. It involves the strategies and mechanisms people use to manage and adapt to stressful events.

Synonyms

dealing with, handling, managing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coping	This is often used in psychological or emotional contexts. It refers to how one is dealing with difficult situations or stress. She is coping with the loss of her father. How are you coping with the new work schedule?
managing	This is often used in a professional or organizational context. It implies overseeing, controlling, or administering situations or tasks. She is managing a team of engineers. Managing the budget has become quite a challenge.
handling	This word implies taking control or managing a situation or task. It often suggests a more active approach than 'dealing with'. He is handling the project very well. How do you handle stress at work?
dealing with	This is a general term used for addressing or managing various situations, problems, or people. It can be used in both professional and personal contexts. I'm dealing with a difficult client right now. She's dealing with some family issues.

Examples of usage

Effective coping skills can help individuals navigate through challenging times.
Talking to a therapist is a common coping mechanism for many people.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

dealing with a difficult situation

When used as a verb, coping means to deal effectively with a difficult situation or to manage stress in a healthy way. It involves taking action to address the challenges and emotions that arise.

Synonyms

dealing with, handling, managing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
coping	Generally used in the context of emotional or psychological resilience. It describes the ability to maintain mental well-being in the face of stress, trauma, or adversity. She found new hobbies as a way of coping after the breakup. He is coping well with the pressure at work.
managing	Used in the context of overseeing, directing, or controlling something. It often applies to tasks, responsibilities, or people within an organizational or systemic framework. She is managing a team of 20 people. Managing multiple projects can be challenging.
handling	This term is often used in situations that require skill or care, such as managing tasks, people, or delicate situations. It implies a level of expertise or smooth operation. She is handling all the logistics for the event. He handles stress well in high-pressure situations.
dealing with	Used when addressing or trying to solve practical problems or challenges. It often implies taking an active role in finding a resolution. He is dealing with a difficult client at the moment. How are you dealing with the new project requirements?

Examples of usage

She copes with her anxiety by practicing mindfulness.
He coped with the loss of his job by seeking support from friends.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Coping strategies can be divided into two main types: problem-focused, which tackles the problem directly, and emotion-focused, which helps manage feelings about the problem.
Research shows that effective coping skills can reduce anxiety and depression, improving overall mental health.
People have unique coping styles that can be influenced by their upbringing, experiences, and personality.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures have varied approaches to coping; for example, some communities emphasize communal support while others may focus on individual resilience.
In East Asian cultures, coping often includes maintaining harmony and not burdening others with personal issues, contrasting with Western approaches that may encourage open expression of feelings.
Spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, are common coping methods across many cultures, providing comfort and a sense of control.

Literature

Many novels explore how characters cope with loss, illustrating that literature often reflects the complexities of human emotional responses.
Famous works, such as Shakespeare's tragedies, showcase various coping mechanisms, from denial to acceptance in the face of tragic circumstances.
Poetry often captures the essence of coping, expressing deep feelings that can resonate with readers and offer solace in difficult times.

Science

Studies have shown that physical activity is an effective coping mechanism, significantly alleviating stress and improving mood.
The body's stress response involves the release of hormones, and learning to manage these responses can improve coping skills.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a scientifically supported method that teaches individuals to cope by changing unhelpful thought patterns.

Pop Culture

Movies often depict characters using humor as a coping mechanism, illustrating how laughter can lighten burdens.
Songs frequently address themes of coping, with artists sharing personal struggles to connect with listeners and provide relatability.
Television shows featuring characters coping with life challenges often resonate with audiences, sparking conversations about mental health.

Translations

Translations of the word "coping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 enfrentando

🇮🇳 सामना करना

🇩🇪 bewältigen

🇮🇩 mengatasi

🇺🇦 справлятися

🇵🇱 radzenie sobie

🇯🇵 対処する (たいしょする)

🇫🇷 faire face

🇪🇸 hacer frente

🇹🇷 başa çıkma

🇰🇷 대처하기

🇸🇦 التعامل مع

🇨🇿 zvládat

🇸🇰 zvládanie

🇨🇳 应对 (yìngduì)

🇸🇮 spopadanje

🇮🇸 takast á

🇰🇿 күресу

🇬🇪 გამკლავება

🇦🇿 öhdəsindən gəlmək

🇲🇽 enfrentar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,391 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
8388 trails
8389 drafting
8390 furious
8391 coping
8392 cardinal
8393 hats
8394 bye
...